World War 1 Royal Navy Leather Cordite Carrier by Barrow, Hepburn & Gale Ltd

These distinctive cylindrical carriers, sometimes referred to as **cordite buckets or Clarkson cases**, were used aboard Royal Navy warships for transporting bagged cordite propellant charges from the ship's magazine to the guns. Their largely non-metallic construction was deliberately intended to minimise the possibility of sparks around the highly combustible propellant. Constructed with a substantial leather-covered body, the carrier retains its original leather carrying strap and canvas-lined interior. Of particular interest is the colourful Royal Arms applied to the front together with a large black “N” naval designation. The underside is clearly impressed “B.H. & G. LTD”, identifying the maker as Barrow, Hepburn & Gale Ltd, important British manufacturers of leather goods and military equipment. Further impressed identification and inspection markings are also present. Dating from the period of the First World War and the great naval engagements of the era, including the Battle of Jutland in 1916, this is an evocative survivor of Royal Navy gunnery history. The leather has developed a particularly attractive warm brown colour and genuine service patina. The survival of the Royal Arms decoration makes this a very appealing example for a naval, militaria or First World War collection and an impressive decorative object in its own right. Material: Leather, canvas and composite construction